ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the main mechanisms and interactions of the components of aquatic plant populations and communities will be examined and discussed, as well as factors that infl uence their spatial and temporal succession and diversity and distribution in lakes, rivers, reservoirs and wetlands. The factors that limit and control the primary production of phytoplankton, periphyton and macrophytes will be examined, as well as fl uctuations in biomass and these organisms’ role in biogeochemical cycles and interactions with other aquatic organisms. Examples are presented from case studies of different aquatic plant communities in the Neotropics as a basis for understanding spatial and seasonal succession in different ecosystems typical in this region. Case studies of temperate-zone lakes are presented for comparison. Basic concepts about succession of phytoplankton, periphyton and macrophytes and the effects of disturbances on these communities are discussed as examples in shallow lakes, Amazonian lakes and reservoirs.
